How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Eastern Correctional Institute.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Eastern Correctional Institute is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Eastern Correctional Institute.

Frequently asked questions about Eastern Correctional Institute

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Eastern Correctional Institute.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Eastern Correctional Institute?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Eastern Correctional Institute?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Eastern Correctional Institute. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Eastern Correctional Institute. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Eastern Correctional Institute?

   Mailing address:

   Eastern Correctional Institute
   30420 Revells Neck Rd
   Westover, MD 21890
   Phone: (410) 845-4000

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at Eastern Correctional Institute?

   Visiting hours at Eastern Correctional Institute vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (410) 845-4000 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Eastern Correctional Institute?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Eastern Correctional Institute for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Eastern Correctional Institute?

   You can send money to an inmate at Eastern Correctional Institute through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Eastern Correctional Institute?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Eastern Correctional Institute, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Eastern Correctional Institute?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Eastern Correctional Institute for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Eastern Correctional Institute, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

Personal growth becomes possible when those incarcerated gain access to structured opportunities that build essential life skills. Eastern Corrections Inst in Maryland typically focuses on creating pathways for individuals to develop both practical abilities and emotional resilience during their time in the facility. The institution often emphasizes security and safety as foundational elements that allow meaningful participation in various developmental offerings.

Educational advancement and vocational training form core components of the facility's approach to skill building. Those incarcerated may access education programs designed to help complete basic academic requirements or advance their learning. Furthermore, vocational training opportunities often include hands-on instruction in welding and other trade skills that can translate into employment opportunities upon release. These offerings typically operate within structured environments that maintain facility security while allowing participants to gain valuable experience.

Support services and therapeutic interventions provide additional layers of assistance for those working toward personal development. The facility may furnish therapeutic services that include cognitive behavioral therapy sessions, helping participants develop healthier thought patterns and coping strategies. Furthermore, practical support offerings such as laundry services and plumbing training often serve dual purposes - maintaining facility operations while teaching transferable skills. These various therapeutic and support components typically work together to create a comprehensive approach to individual growth within the secure institutional setting.

Daily Life & Visitation

Building connections with family and fellow residents forms the cornerstone of daily experiences for those incarcerated at Eastern Correctional Institution. Today's structured environment consistently revolves around maintaining these vital relationships while participating in facility programming. Those incarcerated typically begin each day with early morning counts, followed by meals in communal dining areas that furnish opportunities for social interaction and community building.

Housing arrangements generally place residents in dormitory-style units or smaller rooms, depending on security classification and available space. Furthermore, these living spaces often accommodate multiple individuals, creating natural environments for peer support and shared experiences. Meals are typically served at designated times in central dining facilities, where those incarcerated gather to eat together and maintain social connections. Although movement throughout the facility may be regulated, residents usually have access to common areas during specified periods for recreation and informal gatherings.

The facility typically offers various work assignments that may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or administrative support roles. Recreation opportunities generally include outdoor exercise periods, gymnasium access, and organized sports activities that help maintain physical health and social bonds. Furthermore, structured programming schedules often furnish educational classes, vocational training, and counseling sessions designed to support rehabilitation goals. Visitation policies usually allow regular contact with approved family members and friends, while telephone and correspondence privileges help those incarcerated maintain crucial outside connections. Although specific policies may vary, the commissary system typically enables residents to purchase personal items and food products that enhance daily comfort and social sharing opportunities.